DFor millions of people struggling with chronic back or neck pain, finding lasting relief can feel like an uphill battle. Whether caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease, persistent nerve-related discomfort can interfere with work, sleep, and everyday movement. Fortunately, advancements in pain management have provided targeted solutions that don’t rely solely on surgery. One such option is the epidural steroid injection (ESI)—a minimally invasive procedure that offers significant relief for many patients.
Jordan Sudberg, a board-certified pain management specialist and leading voice in non-surgical pain treatment, has helped countless individuals regain mobility and comfort through precisely administered epidural steroid injections. With extensive experience in interventional spine care and regenerative therapies, Dr. Sudberg offers a balanced, evidence-based approach to ESI—advocating for it as a strategic tool in comprehensive pain care.
In this post, we’ll break down what epidural steroid injections are, how they work, and what patients can expect—with guidance from Jordan Sudberg’s expert perspective.
What Is an Epidural Steroid Injection?
An epidural steroid injection is a procedure in which a corticosteroid medication is injected into the epidural space—the area surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots. The goal is to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain caused by irritated spinal nerves.
According to Jordan Sudberg, ESIs are particularly useful in treating:
- Sciatica (pain radiating down the leg)
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Degenerative disc disease
- Chronic lower back or neck pain
“These injections are not a cure, but they can break the pain cycle and give patients the window they need to begin rehabilitation and restore function,” says Dr. Sudberg.
How Do Epidural Steroid Injections Work?
When spinal nerves become inflamed, they can cause severe pain, numbness, tingling, and even muscle weakness. The corticosteroid in the injection works to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response that contributes to nerve irritation.
Dr. Sudberg explains, “The medication acts locally—right at the source of the inflammation—so patients often experience relief within a few days. For some, the benefit lasts weeks or even months.”
Depending on the condition and the individual, injections may be administered in the lumbar (lower back), cervical (neck), or thoracic (mid-back) region.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Dr. Jordan Sudberg emphasizes that ESI is a quick, outpatient procedure performed under image guidance for maximum accuracy.
Here’s what typically happens:
- Preparation: The patient lies on an X-ray table, and the injection site is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
- Guidance: Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray), Dr. Sudberg precisely guides a thin needle to the epidural space.
- Injection: A mixture of corticosteroid and anesthetic is injected.
- Recovery: The entire procedure usually takes under 30 minutes, followed by a short observation period before the patient can go home.
Patients are typically advised to rest for the remainder of the day and avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours.
Are There Risks or Side Effects?
Like any medical procedure, ESIs carry some risks, although complications are rare when performed by an experienced specialist like Jordan Sudberg.
Possible side effects include:
- Temporary increase in pain
- Headache
- Nausea
- Infection (rare)
- Nerve injury (very rare)
“Proper technique and image guidance dramatically reduce risks,” Dr. Sudberg reassures. “We also evaluate each patient carefully to ensure they’re a good candidate.”
How Effective Are Epidural Steroid Injections?
The effectiveness of ESIs varies depending on the individual and the underlying condition. Some patients experience rapid, lasting relief, while others may need a series of injections spaced weeks apart.
Dr. Sudberg emphasizes the importance of using ESI as part of a broader treatment plan: “The injection can calm the inflammation, but long-term recovery often depends on physical therapy, strengthening, and lifestyle modifications.”
He works with patients to integrate exercise, posture correction, and ergonomic adjustments to support sustainable improvement.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Ideal candidates for ESIs include individuals with:
- Radiating nerve pain (especially in the legs or arms)
- Confirmed disc or nerve issues via MRI or CT scan
- Little to no improvement from conservative treatments like physical therapy or oral medication
Dr. Sudberg warns that injections are not typically recommended for non-specific back pain with no clear nerve involvement. “We always base treatment on imaging, physical exams, and clinical history,” he explains.
Final Thoughts
Epidural steroid injections are a safe, targeted way to manage certain types of back and neck pain. When guided by a skilled practitioner like Jordan Sudberg, they can offer rapid relief and open the door to more active, pain-free living.
If you’re struggling with persistent spinal pain and conservative treatments haven’t worked, ESI may be a step toward reclaiming your quality of life. With proper evaluation and a comprehensive treatment plan, this simple procedure can make a significant impact.